Epoch Biodesign Raises $18.3 Million to Use Enzymes to Tackle Hard-to-Recycle Plastic
Biorecycling startup Epoch Biodesign annouced that it has raised $18.3M in a Series A funding round, with proceeds to be used to scale its solution to use natural enzymes to break down difficult to recycle plastics .
Founded in 2019, London-based Epoch utilizes AI, biochemistry, materials science and process engineering to develop enzymes that can break down materials such as PET, nylon, and polyester at low temperatures, requiring less energy and eliminating the need for the toxic chemicals used in other recycling methods. The resulting materials can be used for the manufacture of new products, replacing the virgin material that would otherwise be used. The company said that its goal is to make recycled plastic more economical than virgin plastic.
Currently, the company has over 40 partnerships across the performance apparel, luxury fashion, automotive, and industrial textiles industries.
Epoch said that the new capital will be used to build its first biorecycling facility and expand its enzyme library to process more types of waste.
Jacob Nathan, Founder and CEO of Epoch Biodesign, said:
“We’re proving that plastic waste isn’t just a problem to solve – it’s a valuable resource waiting to be unlocked. Using the molecular precision of enzymes at an industrial scale, we’re building the solution set to make all plastics recyclable and doing so at a competitive price. This is what real circularity looks like.”
The round was led by Extantia, with participation from fashion brand company Inditex, Lowercarbon Capital, Happiness Capital, Kibo Invest, Day One Ventures, KOMPAS VC and others.
Yair Reem, Partner at Extantia, said:
“Plastic has a bad reputation, but the problem isn’t the material — it’s how we use and dispose of it. When designed, sourced, and recycled responsibly, plastic can be one of the most efficient and sustainable materials we have. And that’s what Epoch is doing. They aren’t just developing better recycling – they’re transforming the entire value chain to ensure it works for the planet, not against it.”
In addition to the investment, Epoch also announced that it is working with Inditex through a multi-year joint development agreement in order to ensure the technology’s ability to meet their rigorous performance standards.
Óscar García Maceiras, CEO of Inditex, said:
“Epoch’s innovative and promising technology has impressive potential to revolutionize blended textile recycling. This investment strengthens our commitment to advancing an innovative, circular model and driving the industry’s transition toward low-impact materials.”